Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to paragraph 19, page 12 of the National Audit Office report, Delivering Carrier Strike, published on 16 March 2017, what steps he is taking to address the long-standing skills gaps in his Department's contract management teams.

The Ministry of Defence is ensuring that the thousands of personnel operating in the defence acquisition system have the necessary skills and competences, including those in commercial roles. In particular, our Commercial Professionalism Programme is currently aiming to increase the professional skills of the commercial function, enabling us to grow and retain our own talent. We have already developed training specifically targeting the skills gaps identified in contract management, with 30 courses scheduled per year on the subject.